THE ROYAL VISIT.

Hokitika Guardian, 23 March 1927, Page 1

THE ROYAL VISIT.

[BY TELEGRAPH —PER PRESB ASSOCIATION.j

CROWD GOES TO BLUFF . INVERCARGILL, March 22

There was light rain falling when the Duke .of York arrived here shortly after two o’clock. Thousands gathered in the main street through which the Royal party motored to Victoria Park, where the Mayor presented an address of welcome. The Renown is at present lying off the Bluff', whither a large crowd has proceeded to witness the farewell ceremony. DUKE’S FAREWELL MESSAGE. INVERCARGILL, March 22. Tho Duke of York, in a farewell message, referred to the wonderful time that the Duchess and he had had in New Zealand, for which it would be difficult to find adequate words. They were especially indebted to Tl’-eir Excellencies for their kindness and hospitality. Ho also expressed gratitude to the Premier and the Dominion Government for tho generous hospitality, enro and consideration with which they- planned and arranged the tour. Lie referred specially to the services rendered by he railway, post office, transport and the Police Departments, and to tlio trouble taken by tho Mayors and the local authorities and to the wonderful enthusiasm of the greetings by both races and the loyalty which characterised tho people of New Zealand. He also thanked the press for the consideration and courtesy displayed at. all times. It was, lie said, a bitter disappointment to the Duchess and himself that she bad been unable to accompany him on the South Island tour. Ho trusted that on some future occasion she would lie able to visit with him the districts' they, were unlible to visit now. So long as they lived, they would always carry with them the happiestmemories of their visit, of the deeprooted loyalty of tho people, of tho striking likeness of the country to Home hi its natural characteristics and its devotion to the same idonls. of its natural resources and potentialities, its agricultural and commercial industries,” of the beauty and variety- of tho scenery, land tlio opportunities for sport of all kinds, of the interesting Maori life and customs, and the harmonious relations existing between the two races, and a most vivid memoryof all the smiling faces and the sturdiness of the children, who lipd everywhere greeted them in thousands. “Once more,” he concluded, “wo thank you all from the bottom ol oui hearts, and send New Zealand, its Government, and its people our host wishes for their continued welfare and prosperity-.” . The Governor-General, 111 reply, thanked His Royinl Highness for Ins most gracious letter, which would go to tlio hearts of all who read it. He referred ulso to tlie personal affection which Their Royal Highnesses had inspired. and, on behalf of the Government and people of New Zealand, ho wished Their Royal Highnesses all health and success during the remaindor of their tour, and all happiness in tlieir return home on its conclusion MAORI FAREWELL. WELLINGTON, March 22. Hon. Sir Maui Poinaro to-day lorwiarded to the Secrtctaiy to His; Highness the Duke of York, the following message: “Will you kindly convey to Their”iloyul Highnesses the following message from the Maori people: “Ilaire re e te. Kotuku Rerena tahi mo to Kaliurangi KameliamelD! Ivia Ora 1” The translation is: “Farewell to you the snow-white Crime, which ilies but once in a lifetime —and to your priceless garment of heaven I Good luck!” SYDNEY EXPECTATIONS. SYDNEY, March 22. The railways and tramways anticipate handling record crowds during the Duke land Duchess of York’s visit. They arc requistioning all tlie available rolling stock, and all holidayleave among the employees has lioen stopped.